A CHATTERIS woman celebrated her 100th birthday not at home as she had hoped but in hospital. Alice Martin had been in good health until five weeks ago when she fell and broke her hip and is now recovering in the Princess of Wales Hospital at Ely. So it w

A CHATTERIS woman celebrated her 100th birthday not at home as she had hoped but in hospital.

Alice Martin had been in good health until five weeks ago when she fell and broke her hip and is now recovering in the Princess of Wales Hospital at Ely.

So it was there her friends and family went on Saturday to celebrate her milestone birthday, and they hope for a proper celebration when she returns to her home in The Grove.

Her daughter Jean said: "Mum enjoyed a very happy childhood as a family of six children. On leaving school she went into service for a family doctor.

"She then met George, her late husband, and was married for 53 years."

The couple had four children, Elsie, Jean, Janet and the late Maurice. Among those visiting at the weekend were some of her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

"Her family has been the important thing to her," said Jean. "After she retired she joined George on the bowling green which they both enjoyed and her garden was a hobby for her.

"She has always enjoyed good health until this recent fall."

Many cards and flowers were delivered to the hospital for her birthday and a small party was arranged by family and hospital staff.

"Instead of presents mum has asked her donations to George Clare surgery," she added.